Konnichiwa mina-san! If anybody remembers who I am, I did write this story once, a very long time ago. (Although, I didn't finish it) Now, with my improved wisdom, I have revised and brought you all this story once again. Hopefully, it will all turn out well and it won't be a complete failure… But I'll do my best either way!

Edit: In my story, I have tried to include various simple japanese phrases and words in my story, to add flavor. Due to popular demand, I will add translations at the end of the chapter for the japanese I use, as I realize it might be confusing for some of you.

Preview: Syaoran is a cold, yet powerful young boy sent on a mission. Sakura is a bright, cheerful young girl, who's just trying to adapt to her everchanging life. How can two people who have so little in common, share such a strange, yet powerful, feeling?


Disclaimer:

Card Captor Sakura is the sole property of CLAMP. I'm just a fanfiction writer.


Chapter 1: Mission Time!


Hong Kong: Li Family Main House

Training Hall

9:00 AM

"Here I come dear cousin!"

Grasping her wooden sword in both hands, she made the first movement, swinging a short slash to her opponent's left arm. Her opponent reacted quickly, parrying the blow. Expecting this, she made a quick spin the opposite way, hoping to strike her opponent's right side before he had time to react.

Crick!

Quick to react, her opponent quickly shifted his weight to his right side, deflecting the second swing with a vertical parry. Reading her opponent's next attack, she strafed to the left and rolled away from her opponent, dodging his forward stab aimed at her chest.

"Whew, that would've been ugly if it connected!" she said in relief.

"Like you were really worried about really getting hit." her opponent scoffed back.

The two combatants stared at each other as they circled the floor of the Li Clan's indoor training hall. The girl with long, raven black hair tied in two ponytails moved her body to a shape of a gatotsu form, an offensive oriented stance with her sword in her right hand raised behind her with her off hand right below the end of the blade, her feet in a neutral, sideways middle stance. At the same time, a boy with unruly, light brown hair reacted by holding his sword with two hands directly in front, his legs both bent with his right knee slightly in front, taking on a classic defensive stance.

Again the girl took the offensive. Gliding her feet forward and joining both hands, she attacked with a quick vertical slash, taking full benefit from her kotatsu stance's strength.

Swish

Expecting her opening strike, the boy gracefully stepped back with his right foot, making the girl's attack slice nothing but air. The girl, using her using only a quarter of her power for her first slash, followed through with a direct thrust aimed right at his chest.

Whoosh!

Seeing the wooden sword go for his chest, he feinted left. Immediately seeing an opening as his opponent hasn't recovered fully from the thrust's follow-through, he moved in quickly attacking the girl's left side. The girl opened her eyes wide, and hurriedly attempted to bring her wooden sword to a vertical position to parry.

CRACK!

Having just enough reflex to barely block the blow in time she pushed away, gaining range and ending the short melee exchange.

"Getting better aren't you?"

"Of course, I didn't practice every single day for nothing!"

Both opponents charged, the boy with an overhead strike and the girl meeting his attack, attempting to withstand and direct away his sword. Both combatants were at a deadlock, and neither person appeared to have the upper hand.

"I see you're a lot stronger than before... You can actually withstand 10 percent of my power."

"Hehe! Thank you oh great one."

"Stop mocking me!" came the rather annoyed reply.

Both having the same mindset, they broke the deadlock, both combatants doing a back flip and landing in a defensive position. They circled the hall once again neither one making the first move. After not gaining any ground after her two first attacks, the boy saw that she was reluctant to take the offense.

"Come, Li Mei Ling!" the boy said rather sternly. "She who hesitates will lose confidence, and that leads to defeat!" he continued, motioning her to make the first attack.

Mei Ling became somewhat agitated, but at the same time determined. "Here I come then, Syaoran!" she announced, using the Japanese pronunciation of his name. " I hope you're prepared!"

"Anytime!"

Mei Ling charged in, keeping her sword at her right side gripped with both hands. Seeing no immediate opening, the defender gripped his sword tighter and bent his knees slightly lower, trying to read her attack. "Haa!" came Mei Ling's battle cry. Stepping up her speed, she swiftly stepped forward and leaped high into the hair. Moving with great swiftness, she changed her directions from left to right in mid-air, her movements almost a blur.

To the untrained eye that is.

"One front flip, two side flips…." the boy watched her intently, calculating. "She's going for an overhead strike. Fancy, but predictable!"

Performing one more frontal flip, the Mei Ling gathered enough momentum for a seemingly deadly overhead strike. The defender put all his strength into an overhead swing move that appeared to strike the kendo sword away from the attacker's grasp.

"I knocked it away? Wait a minute, there was no counter-force to my parry... What… why would she let go… ahhhhh!"

Seeing two fingers pointed right in front of his neck, he dropped his own wooden sword in surprise.

"Hehehe! Looks like I win this time Xiao Lang!"

"… Hey no fair!" he said, suddenly realizing what just transpired. "This is supposed to be a kendo match!"

"But in battle, anything goes right? I just outsmarted you this time!"

Syaoran scowled a bit, but softened his look in an instant. "You're right Mei Ling. You did a good job. Looks like you might be able to surpass me someday."

Mei Ling looked at Syaoran as if he had gone crazy. He actually gave out a compliment, a real, genuine compliment! She couldn't remember the last time he said anything good about anybody. She would've jumped for joy if she didn't catch Syaoran gazing at her adamantly. Lightly flushing at his gaze, her mind remembered what he said before. "N-No way can I ever surpass you! You barely used any of your fighting potential! Don't give that 10 percent bull! That was more like 3 percent!"

"Acutally it's more like I gave...!" Syaoran was about to correct her, but was cut off as he heard a door slide open, Mei Ling and Syaoran looked to the direction of the only entrance of the training room.

"Ah! Good morning Xiao Lang, Mei Ling."

"Ohayo gozaimasu, Wei-san." they both chorused. Wei smiled back.

"Wei-san guess what!" Meiling chirped. "I beat Xiao Lang one on one today. Isn't that great?"

Wei gave a momentarily surprised look. "Is that so Mei Ling? Looks like the young master is getting rusty. Must be getting old…"

"I am not old! I'm only 14 for crying out loud!"

Giving a wistful look, Wei kneeled down in front of Syaoran and patted his head. "Xiao Lang is growing up so fast! It seemed only yesterday that I was helping your Mother change your diapers…"

"Wei-san!" Syaoran shouted, rather embarrassed.

"Awww… did widdle Xiao Lang have a poo-poo?" Mei Ling mocked in a baby tone.

Syaoran immediately shot one of his death glares. "One more word, and you're dead!"

"Riiight, and who's the one that lost today? Hmmm….?"

"That's it you're a goner!" he barked, chasing Mei Ling.

"Hehe can't catch me!"

Wei smiled at the two cousins fondly. Syaoran can act so serious and cold at times. But he knew that underneath that, he was also very childish and warm-hearted. This is one of the rare times he saw this side of him. It seemed that the only people who can draw out that side of Syaoran were himself, his family, Mei Ling, and… his thoughts suddenly drew a blank.

"What was I thinking about again? Hmm... must've slipped my mind. Guess I'm the one getting old."

"Oh, Xiao Lang, Mei Ling" Wei started, remembering the reason for coming to see them. "Li-dono wishes to speak with you both."

Syaoran, who a second before was wildly chasing Mei Ling, suddenly stopped it in his tracks and immediately looked at Wei with a horror stricken face. Mei Ling, in addition, immediately ceased her giggling and shot a concerned face at Syaoran and Wei, before finally absorbing what Wei just said.

"My mother?" Syaoran asked a bit frighteningly.

"Yes, Li-dono says it is a matter of great importance, and that it involves both of you.

Syaoran let out a nervous gulp. Whenever his mother called him out for a little talk, it wasn't just a trivial conversation. Mei Ling, seeing her cousin in such a state, couldn't help but start to feel the same herself. Mei Ling trotted to Syaoran's earside.

"Xiao Lang? What do you think she called us for?" Meiling whispered, butterflies in her stomach.

"I don't know, Mei Ling, I don't know…"

And Wei just showed his usual, neutral smile.


Hong Kong: Li Family Main House

Living Room

9:30 AM

After changing out of their training outfits, Mei Ling and Syaoran joined Wei as he led them to the main living room. As expected, it was a rather long walk, as the training hall was at a separate wing to the main house. On top of that, the house they were residing in was more like a mansion! Consequently, Syaoran and Mei Ling had plenty of time to well... wonder.

The three were walking in silence. Syaoran and Mei Ling had their heads down, thinking what "business" Yelan was talking about. Wei just had a thoughtful look on his face.

"...Say Wei-san. Do you have any idea what my mother is going to say to us?" Syaoran started, trying to prepare for her mother's words.

"Hmm… I'm afraid I cannot say Xiao Lang." Wei replied, eyeing his young master. "I wonder what it could be..." Wei wondered aloud.

Arriving at the Li family's main house living room, Mei Ling couldn't help but stare in wonder at it. No matter how many times she visited, she never failed to marvel at the sheer richness of the place. The size was almost the area of her entire house, and was decorated with various Chinese pottery and jade crafted statues. There was extensive seating available, which was meant to accommodate a large amount of people for formal gatherings and other important visitors.

Her eyes went to the middle of the room, spotting Li Yelan, the head of the Li household. Wearing a white kimono, she had pale, yet smooth, beautiful skin. Her waist length jet black hair was tied up, giving off a non-formal feel to her attire. Her face held a neutral, polite expression, yet still conveyed the power, confidence, and grace of a Li family member all the same. Even in her non-formal attire, she commanded a presence that was impossible to ignore.

Looking up with her charcoal-colored eyes, her gaze fell on the two children. Syaoran and Mei Ling, feeling her penetrating gaze, immediately tensed up, as it seemed like she was peering into their soul themselves. In a moment, she let up her gaze and softened her eyes.

"Li-dono, Mei Ling and the young master have arrived, as requested." Wei bowed.

"Ah! Wei-san, thank you for escorting the two here. Here have a seat Xiao Lang, Mei Ling!" Yelan said rather light-heartedly, earning a startled look from Syaoran and Mei Ling.

The two cousins took a seat directly across from Yelan, albeit rather slowly. Yelan's unusual cheerful attitude did nothing to calm their nerves.

"So Mei Ling, are you enjoying your stay at our residence once again? I know it's a little big and fancy but…"

"Hai!" Mei Ling suddenly answered, standing up, in a very loud tone, startling Syaoran. "Yelan-obasama, Xiao Lang, and Wei-san have been very very kind!" she spoke up even louder, and then performing a deep bow, her head almost becoming level with her hips.

Yelan smiled radiantly at her, and waved her hands lightly. "Glad to hear that Mei Ling! Also, no need to be so formal with me!"

"Sumimasen!" Mei Ling half shouted, still bowing, and immediately plopped down next to Syaoran. Syaoran let out a big, long sigh.

"Wei-san" Yelan suddenly spoke up, making a sort of hand gesture at Wei. "Would you mind getting us some tea?"

"Of course Li-dono." Wei quickly stepped out of the room, understanding her subtle message.

As Wei closed the door the living room, the air again became very heavy in the room. So, heavy in fact, that it was like any wrong movement could blow the place up! Mei Ling was just looking down at her lap, afraid to make even the wrong movement, while Syaoran was alternating between glancing at his mother every 5 seconds, and admiring the shoes he was wearing today. Sensing this, Yelan immediately put on her usual serious look.

"Xiao Lang?"

"Yes, mother?" he replied, looking straight at Yelan.

"Please relax, my son, you are not here because you have done anything bad."

"I will try mother." he replied, although he showed no sign of relaxing.

Yelan stood up and walked to the window and looked up at the morning sun. Finally free from her penetrating gaze, Syaoran and Mei Ling breathed deeply, relaxing a bit. Taking a glance at Yelan, she was staring outside almost wistfully, her face lightening up from her serious expression before.

"Ever since your father left us," she started sadly, "You have been training and training, promising to become a great leader that your father would've been proud of." Yelan let out a little smile. "You showed great progress in the martial arts, and were very diligent with your studies, both academic and magical..." Yelan then looked straight at Syaoran.

"Xiao Lang..." she continued, looking at Syaoran proudly, "...over the past few years you've matured into a fine young man, both physically and mentally. You have the strength, resolve, and mindset to become one of the best leaders our clan has ever had…"

Syaoran immediately tensed up. "So this is what it's all about… Me? Become the clan leader at this age? Am I even ready?" he thought million thoughts swam through Syaoran's mind at once.

"… although your people skills could definitely use some help." Yelan added, chuckling lightly.

Mei Ling couldn't help but let out a little laugh too, as he saw Syaoran look down embarassed.

She knew Syaoran since they were practically babies, and all throughout their childhood he was a very introverted person. While she would chat wildly with her friends, Syaoran was always far away, sitting alone, either deep in thought or staring at the sky. The only people he would ever talk to during school would be his sensei's, and herself. Even when he was with her, he still seemed quite shy... until she started relentlessly teasing him about all sorts of things, which brought out his personality a little. She knew he had a reason for being like this, of course, ever since his father, the leader of the Li Clan died, Syaoran was forced to grow up entirely too fast. He was pushed by the clan to train and study immensely, leaving him no free time to have a social life. The clan wanted him to still interact with people... sure, hence the reason he was still enrolled in school, but his already introverted personality just deepened.

Through the whole time, Mei Ling tried her best to be a good friend for him. Finding that she had a knack for martial arts, she joined Syaoran in his physical training sessions, if only to keep him company. She also tried introducing him to her friends, but with his stone-cold attitude and his lack of social skill, her friends tended to stay away from him. Looking at Syaoran once again, she thought to herself. "That's Syaoran alright, cold and unsociable to everyone that he isn't close with. I wish… I wish he can be more open to other people. Show his true self to others…"

As much as she adored Syaoran, she wished he would show others what kind of person he really was: the thoughtful, sweet, and diligent boy she grew to love. The only peers that ever knew the real person behind that shell were herself and... her eyes immediately shot up a moment. Suddenly a shadow of an image passed through Mei Ling's mind.

"Mei Ling, what's wrong?" Syaoran said to her, sensing the change in her look. Yelan seemed to notice as well, and shot her a calculating gaze, carefully observing her reaction. Mei Ling scanned her mind again, trying to recover that image she received only a few seconds back. What did I just think of? I know it was something, but...

"It's nothing, Xiao Lang… Oba-sama, please continue…"

"Certainly." Yelan replied, neutrally. Turning around to fully face the two, she let out a wide grin. "So I have decided that in order to improve these people skills of yours, I'm going to send you to live in Japan for a while, with Mei Ling!"

"Yeah, Japan! That would be a good idea..." Mei Ling's thoughts started. Her thought process was interrupted as Yelan's statement fully sank in.

"Nani!" they both exclaimed at the same time. Both cousins immediately went to wide, saucer eyed mode. Yelan only smiled wider. Behind the living room door, Wei gave out a small chuckle.

"B-b-but… why Japan! There are plenty of people at my school here in China!" Syaoran replied hastily.

"Yes why Japan oba-sama? We like it here!" added Mei Ling.

Both cousins looked at Yelan with a mixture of anxiety and confusion in their eyes. "Now, now..." Yelan cut in, "You didn't let me finish…" she replied back calmly.

Syaoran stopped. "Huh? There's more?"

At that moment Yelan's lopsided grin turned into a deep, dark frown. Her eyes narrowed and she once again looked out to the landscape outside, lost in thought. Watching his mother, Syaoran face darkened as well, as if suddenly understanding. Mei Ling could only look at the two, with helpless wonder, knowing that they probably know something that they don't. Unlike the people that lived under the Li main household, she had no attunement to the mystical arts, or 'magic', the term some people may use.

"Yes, there is an evil presence about." Yelan shook her head, looking like she was in some mild discomfort. "Surely… you have sensed something coming from Japan, haven't you Xiao Lang?"

Syaoran thought for a moment. "Yes, I felt something strange a season ago." Though studying and rigorous training, he became familiar with different schools and sources of magic, be it western, taoist, and even supernatural, but ever since he suddenly woke up that one morning, more than 3 months ago, it has been quite a distraction in the back of his mind. It was just a little feeling he felt that morning, but it made his hairs stand on end and made him very wary. That feeling was unkown, mysterious, and was something he hasn't heard about or dealt with before. He wasn't sure if it was evil, good, trustworthy, or anything. "Although… I can't quite put my finger on what it is." Syaoran continued, sorting his thoughts. "So, you are sure this presence is hostile mother?"

"Yes, I'm sure. I don't know why, but I somehow just know this is not good news. It has been disturbing me for quite some time as well, although I haven't felt anything since then."

Syaoran nodded. Mei Ling, in the meanwhile, was visibly shaken, trying to imagine what it was that bothered Syoran and her aunt -two of the most powerful members of the Li Clan- to this extent. "It's times like these I'm glad I don't have magic…" Meiling thought, frightened by the thought of having nightmares about sensing evil presences.

"So... that's the other reason I am sending both of you there. To investigate, and probably shut down whatever evil might be surfacing there. With your training Xiao Lang and Mei Ling, this should be an able task for you..."

"Yelan-obasama!" Mei Ling interrupted, suddenly standing up. "But… why are you sending me? I..." she looked down trying to find the right words. "I'm not that strong... and I don't even have a speck of magical ability at all…" she trailed off.

"But Meiling, your skill in the martial arts is excellent is it not? I hear outmaneuver my son this morning after all!" Yelan answered her, smiling. Mei Ling blushed at the compliment. It wasn't often that you hear the head of the Li household sing praises about anyone. Syaoran only let out all small scowl.

"Great, everyone's rubbing me in today about that loss…" Syaoran thought bitterly.

"You would be a great help to my son. Also, you are the closest person to my son in this family and all. Seeing how his people skills are now, he'd be lonely!"

"Okaa-sama!" Syaoran spoke out, seemingly insulted. Although he knew everything she said was true.

"Xiao Lang. You know that this is a foreign country. Even though I know you could manage very well on your own, it is imperative that you don't know err..." she paused to think of a good term. "... aggrevate the natives."

Mei Ling snorted, and Syaoran immediately shot her a glare.

"Well, I would fully understand if you don't want Mei Ling to accompany you." Yelan then feigned an innocent look. "I hear Fei Mei and Fan Ren always wanted to visit Japan, and they do adore their darling little brother sooo very much. Perhaps I could arrange..."

Syaoran's face immediately paled. "NO!" he almost shouted, making even the eavesdropping Wei jump back. "There is no way, no way, those banshee's are coming with me!" he complained with much agitation on his face.

"If that is the case..." Yelan said with an all-knowing smile. "... then I would assume Mei Ling would be your preferred companion?"

Syaoran looked at his mother and at Mei Ling, a little startled by the latter. Mei Ling had that watery look in her eyes. "I guess..." he started, trembling with his words a bit. "If, if it's Mei Ling, then that would be acceptable." he said quickly, all the while looking at the wall.

Yelan beamed a really bright smile. His son was so cute when he was embarrassed! Mei Ling, meanwhile, felt a slight tint of red at her cheeks. The words he said, to any other person it would seem just like just a normal statement. But this was Syaoran, it was almost a cold day in hell when he said anything good about anyone. "Xiao Lang, he actually complimented me again, twice in the same day!" she thought. It took quite a bit of willpower to keep herself from suddenly latching out and hug him.

"So it is settled then, Mei Ling, you will travel with Xiao Lang to Japan and support his efforts. We are counting on you." Yelan said, giving Mei Ling a slight bow.

"The Yelan-obasama, Xiao Lang... the entire Li Clan really expect a lot out of me… I hope… I hope…" Mei Ling thought deeply. This was the first time anyone has expected this much out of her! Working with the future leader of the Li Clan in such an important mission. When she was invited here a few days back, she never even imagined this would be the reason why. "Yes, I understand now oba-sama… I hope I won't let you all down!" she said doing a deep bow.

Yelan smiled at her niece. She was such a hard worker and very eager to please. It's no wonder that they befriended each other. "There is one more thing, Xiao Lang, Mei Ling. After the Li Elders and I had a divination session about this presence, we have come to a plausible, yet hypothetical assumption as to the purpose of this presence appearing." Yelan paused for a moment. "After pinpointing the whereabouts of this appearance, and our relative knowledge of Japan's magical and historical background, we have come to the conclusion that this evil presence's target is most likely that the Mistress of the Cards."

"The card mistress!" Syaoran said surprisingly. "You mean the master of the legendary clow cards?"

"Yes, but she didn't just master the power of the cards, but she was also strong enough to turn them into her own cards that is drawn from her own power." Yelan responded.

"Her own power? Then… then that means she must have as much power as Clow Reed himself!" Syaoran said with slight disbelief.

"Yes, her magical power is very strong indeed, and it is a reasonable assumption that she's more powerful than anybody even in our clan."

Syaoran nodded in agreement, until a sudden thought came to his mind. "Wait a minute… If she is so powerful then don't you think she can probably fend off the evil by herself?"

Yelan's eyes looked downcast for a moment. "That is the problem, this evil presence IS stronger than her."

Syaoran immediately paled. "Th-then, what chance does Mei Ling and I have?"

"No chance at all, I'm afraid. That is why you must team up with the card mistress and work together to combat this evil."

The two cousins immediately went into deep thought.

"Needless to say, if you fail, there would be no one else to stop it. It's exact intentions are unknown, but... whatever it is, it is not good at all."

Mei Ling looked from Syaoran, to Yelan, and back to Syaoran. "Poor Xiao Lang, this is such a great task for him. I hope his Mother knows what she's doing. Well I will help him through this, I swear I will!"

"I understand." Syaoran said in such a determined voice that it shook Yelan and Mei Ling. "We will leave for Japan as soon as possible!"

Yelan suddenly changed her expression to a lopsided grin. "Now that's what the leader of the Li Clan should sound like! Wei has already taken up the liberty to pack yours and Mei Ling's things. Your flight to Japan leaves tomorrow!"

Syaoran crashed to the floor. "I—I see you've been planning things ahead of time."

"Of course! It's fun planning a trip!"

"Okaa-sama, this isn't a vacation!"

"I know, I know, but make sure you have some fun while you're there. Keep in mind that the purpose of your trip is not just official business, but a chance for you to grow and develop as a person. Meet new people, improve your social life, and all that." Yelan then lifted her head up in wonder. "Ah I wonder how you could make friends with that stoic attitude of yours? I remember that one time I brought the daughter of one of our trading partners in China over, and you just locked yourself in your room for the whole day... so shy that you wouldn't even say a word even when we had dinner together. I wonder when I'm Xiao Lang will ever introduce me to a girl he likes if he keeps acting like that... Well maybe some girls would find that cute actually..." she started chuckling.

"Okaa-sama!"

Mei Ling sweatdropped. "What happened to the serious mood a while back?"

"Oh Auntie!" Meiling intervened, "You forgot to tell us who the card mistress is!"

"That's a good question..." Yelan mused.

"What? You mean the Elders don't even know?" Syaoran said, very surprised.

"You must keep in mind that she is as strong if not stronger than Clow Reed himself! Of course she would be able to learn to mask her presence! It was tough enough trying to locate that evil presence at that moment when it revealed itself... knowing about someone that is this strong who is in hiding is impossible!"

"I see. That makes sense." answered Syaoran.

"However I have pinpointed the location of the evil source to Tomoeda, Japan. So that is where your residence will be. The card mistress should be close by, as our sources have revealed that she is currently residing in that area as well. I have also enrolled you two at Kageyama Gakuen, the best college prep school in Japan! With both of your grades it was easy to get you two enrolled. It's said that almost all of the alumni are guaranteed to get into their school of choice... it is an excellent opportunity for you, Mei Ling. And Xiao Lang as well, even if it is to only further your knowledge..."

Syaoran gruffed. He was half hoping he wouldn't have to still go to school. "I guess even future Li Clan leaders need a high school diploma of sorts these days..."

"In any case, as soon as you arrive at Tomoeda, I recommend that the first thing you two do is to locate the card mistress. Even though the chances are improbable, try to use your lasin board Xiao Lang. Of course, it goes without saying, but try not to attract any unwanted attention from the common folk. Even if you don't find her, perhaps the card mistress will pick up your signal and try to find you. Please don't show any hostility if that happens. Even if you are unable to locate her"

"Right!" Syaoran and Mei Ling replied simultaneously.


After the meeting, Xiao Lang and Mei Ling immediately headed towards their rooms to pack whatever was left of their belongings, in preparation for their trip. Mei Ling, having almost all of her luggage packed in advance courtesy of Yelan, decided to check up on Syaoran.

knock knock

"Mei Ling?" Syaoran's voice echoed through the door. "Go ahead, it's unlocked."

Entering the room, Mei Ling was about to say something, but suddenly shut her mouth. Syaoran was sitting cross legged on the ground, eyes closed, and appeared to be muttering some strange incantation to a few talismans laid out in front of him. As Syaoran continued a faint aura surrounded each piece of paper and faded away a few seconds after it appeared. Seemingly satisfied, Syaoran opened his eyes and looked up.

"Yes, Mei Ling?" he said without looking at her, gathering his talismans.

"You know, it's polite to look at the person you're trying to talk to. You make it seem like you're not interested in talking to the person." Mei Ling, said back with a slight scolding tone, sitting on his bed.

"Then I guess I'm doing exactly what I wanted to do." he replied back, pocketing the talismans in a small pouch near his left hip.

Meiling giggled a bit. "Wow, if I didn't know better, you just tried to crack a joke!"

Syaoran let out a small grunt. He then walked to his closet and opened it, looking inside for anything he might've forgotten to bring. "Are you sure you're all prepared Mei Ling? The enemy is unknown, so we have to be prepared for anything. I've just prepared some elemental wards for the both of us to carry, and have also enchanted my battle outfit for as much physical protection as I could without tearing the thing." He said, fingering his shirt a bit. "In addition, I'm bringing along extra armaments just in case my swordplay is rendered ineffective..."

"Xi Ao La Ng!" Mei Ling interrupted, "Just in case you weren't listening, we're going to a school in Japan, not some battlefield!"

"I know that! But we should be prepared in any case..."

"What I'm trying to say is... have you prepared anything that's not... I don't know... combat related?" Mei Ling sighed out.

"What do you mean?"

"Like this!" Mei Ling suddenly stood up, pushed Syaoran aside, and pointed to some clothes hanging at the back of his closet. "I got these for you for your last birthday and I'm willing to bet that you didn't even try on these once, have you?"

She pointed to a nice, light brown polo shirt with a simple white t-shirt, hanging together with a light brown pair of jeans. "Well..." Syaoran said, scratching his head a little. "It's not like I need something like that for our trip..."

"Oh yes you do, you do plan on going out for something non-school, non-combat related aren't you?" Mei Ling almost shouted. "Here!" she took the outfit and pushed it to Syaoran's hands. "Try this on right now! Come out and show me when you're done!" she said as she skipped out the door.

Syaoran just stared blankly at the clothes in his hand and then to the door.

"She sounds like my mother sometimes..."

About 5 minutes later Mei Ling, standing in front of Syaoran's room, noticed the door open to reveal a very embarssed Syaoran revealing the outfit she got for him.

"Wow... Xiao Lang! Omae wa kakou-Ii!" she said in awe.

"... do you really think so?" Syaoran replied in a small tone.

In the corner of the hallway, almost out of line of sight, Syaoran and Mei Ling heard a crash and turned to see Fei Mei and Fan Ren, two of Syaoran's sisters who happened to be home at the moment, sprawled on the floor. As if magically, they both got up and rushed over to their side.

"Xiao Lang, you look so cute!" Fan Ren squealed, gripping her little brother in a very tight hug.

"I can't believe Mei Ling actually got you to wear something like this!" Fei Mei added.

"... can't... breathe..."

After a few more seconds suffocating under Fan Ren's tight grasp, Syaoran somehow broke out of it. "Fan Ren no baka!" he shouted as he chased her, determined to hit her over the head. While Fan Ren ran as fast as her legs could take her, all the way to the lower floor. As they disappeared from sight, Mei Ling sweatdropped. Her cousins seem to be full of energy all the time.

"Don't worry Mei Ling, he liked it very much."

A little surprised, Mei Ling looked up and met Fei Mei, one of Syaoran's older sisters, eye. "What makes you say that?"

"Well, he actually asked you how it looked on him! Whenever my sisters or okaa-san gets him something to wear, he just throws it in the back of his closet without showing any facet of emotion, save for disgust sometimes..." Fei Mei chuckled. "You know, I'm glad you're the one okaa-san chose to go with him. You're a very important person to him, wether he shows it or not."

Upon hearing that, Mei Ling's face tinted slightly red. "I-I'm not that special." she stammered out. Abruptly she turned around toward the direction of her room. "I'm glad Xiao Lang likes the outfit, if you'll excuse me, I need to go pack a few more things..." she said hastily.

"Mei Ling, you have to tell him someday, it's not fair to him that he doesn't know."

Saying nothing, Mei Ling sped off toward her room.

Fei Mei displayed a knowing smirk as she watched her retreating figure. "Good luck in Japan, you two."


Hong Kong: Chek Lap Kok Airport (Hong Kong International Airport)

The next morning

-Syaoran-

"Okaa-sama! You can stop hugging me now! People are starting to stare…"

"I just can't believe my son is already going away on his own now! You're only 14 you know! Most parents only do this 5 to 10 years from now!"

After releasing from my Mother's embrace, I took one last, longing look, through the windows at Hong Kong. It was my stomping ground for the last 13 years after all. I admit I was a little upset when I first heard I was going to leave, but now I'm almost looking forward to it. I knew I had a mission to do of course, but I was going to go off on my own. Feeling anxious and nervous at the same time, I turned back to my mother.

"Don't worry oka-sama, I'll be okay. I've had many years of training to prepare me for something like this." I said to her in a determined voice.

"I know that too well Xiao Lang, but still, it's always sad when a mother can't watch her baby boy grow up anymore." she replied.

Flight 802 to Narita International Airport, Japan; is now boarding.

"Just remember that I'll always love you and if you ever need me, just give me a call!" my mom said to me as the annoouncement faded out. Wrapping me in yet another hug, I was a little surprised at all the sentiment she was showing. I knew better than anyone else that my mom always held such emotions in check, but her aura was more fiercely protective than usual, it seemed. She really was going to miss me.

Not sure of what to say, I said the first thing that came to my mine as I returned the hug. "I will okaa-sama, I'll miss you too."

Looking behind her shoulders, I saw that Mei Ling and Wei couldn't help but smile at the scene in front of them. Releasing the hug I tried to give the best smile I could in front of my mother, failing miserably. My mother just laughed and patted me on the head. "I'm really not used to doing these kind of scenes..." my mind immediately thought.

Then, I saw my mother turn around and give Mei Ling a goodbye hug, one that was no less fierce that the one she gave me. "I'll miss you too Mei Ling." she said in a soft tone. Seeing Mei Ling's face, I saw a little water come out of her eyes.

"I will too Yelan-obaa-sama." Mei Ling replied. I couldn't help but give off the faintest smile. Mei Ling has always been a constant visitor in our house, and she was the closest cousin I had too. I always thought of her more as a sister than a cousin, and my mom thought of her like another daughter. I'm sure Mei Ling thought of my mother as a second mother figure as well also.

"Help Xiao Lang out when you can ok?"

"I will."

As much as I despised receiving help at all, I'm glad Mei Ling is coming with me. We knew each other quite well and we trained together in the martial arts for many years, so we were very 'in sync' with each other when fighting together. Having someone dependable that has your back is a great asset.

Of course, I don't think of her just as a fighting asset, but as a friend too. She was the only person that I really talked to outside of my family, with me being trained and trained rigorously day after day. Other girls seemed too frilly or too nervous, but Mei Ling is very outgoing, and speaks what's on her mind. On the other hand, any guys that I tried to talk to seem to be only interested in the next hot new electronic device, or about cute girls. I can never start a real conversation with them just because I had no interest in such things. I guess that's how I turned into such a shy, unfeeling person. Having no social life and doing nothing all day but train will do that to you.

I'll try to be a different person in Japan, I'll give birth to a whole new me! Now that I'll actually have some free time (when I'm not doing official Li Clan business, that is), I'll try to err... develop a social life... make friends, and all that stuff. Good thing Mei Ling is coming along to help, I wouldn't admit it, but I think I'd be so lost trying to do this if she wasn't coming!

Flight 802 to Narita International Airport, Japan; Last Boarding Call!

"That's our cue Mei Ling." I said as she and my mother broke their hug. As Mei Ling ran to my side, I looked back at my mother and Wei, and I flashed a warm, genuine smile at her. Mei Ling looked wide-eyed at me, and I was even surprised myself.

"Goodbye okaa-sama, Wei-san. We'll do our best I promise!" and with that I bowed, and entered the tunnel to the plane.

Seeing the two wave goodbye, Mei Ling and I disappeared through the gate.

"Oh yeah Mei Ling..."

"Hmm?" I saw her glance at me sideways, a questioning look in her eyes.

"That match we had yesterday... I was giving it my all." I kept walking, and I didn't have to turn around to notice Mei Ling suddenly stopping in her tracks.

To be continued…


Preview for the next chapter:

Sakura: Hello everyone! My name's Kinomoto Sakura. Yoroshiku! P.E. is my game! Don't get your hopes up for my math skills though.

Touya Are you still blabbering your mouth kaijuu?

Sakura: (steps on Touya's foot)

Touya: ITAI!

Sakura: As I was saying, I finally was accepted to the best high school in Japan, and now I have to move out! It'll be so sad not having my otou-san and (sigh) even my onni-chan next to me!

Tomoyo: It's okay Sakura-chan, I'm sure it'll be okay!

Sakura: Oh yeah! Before I forget, I'm the mistress of the cards!

Eriol: Umm ... you just now mention that?

Sakura: Next on A Feeling So Strong Chapter 2: Moving Out. See you then!

Eriol: It looks like your family won't be the only ones that you're saying goodbye to.

Sakura: Hoe?


Translations:

Ohayo gozaimasu: The formal way of saying "Good morning". The less formal 'Ohayo' is used often between friends and family.

-san: A general-use honorific that is most often used with non-family members, or people you just met. It is also used to address older people.

oba-sama: 'oba-san' means aunt, while -sama is an honorific that confers greater respect than the usual -san. Since Yelan is of an important position in the Li Clan, this is what Mei Ling uses.

okaa-sama: 'okaa-san' meaning mother, this phrase translates roughly to "honorable mother". Syaoran addresses his mother as such similar to Mei Ling.

-dono: An honorific that exaltes the person in question even higher than -sama. Because Wei is only a servant, he adresses Yelan as this.

Omae wa Kakou-Ii! - Omae literally translates to "the one in front of me" or "you" (in simple terms), and kakou-ii meaning handsome, cool, wonderful... you get the idea.

Fan Ren no baka! - "Fan Ren you idiot!" Baka means idiot, dummy, stupid...

Yoroshiku! - An informal way of ending an introduction to oneself. Translates to "Pleased to meet you!"

As an extra note, 'Xiao Lang' (pronounced sh-a-o-laa-ng) is pronounced much the same way as Syaoran (sh-a-o-raa-n), his Japanese name. Because the japanese language has no "L" sound, the closest character they can use is 'ra', hence the difference in prononciation. I've used his Chinese name in speech becuase frankly, they're in China.